During
her detention in the Aga Khan Palace, in Poona, despite her failing health Ba
would often watch Sushilabehn, Mirabehn, Manubehn, Dr. Gilder and Pyarelalji and
others playing Badminton. And she would pull up the players if any one played
any tricks. Once even she and Bapu played a game of Ping-Pong. But when Ba could
not return the ball, served by Bapu, all had a hearty laugh. Ba subsequently,
too, now and again, played this game, but she had to give it up before long
because of asthma.
At night
Mirabehn, Dr. Gilder and others would play carom. Ba took interest in this game
as well and soon began to play it herself. She and Mirabehn would usually be
partners and as Mirabehn was a skilful player, they would usually win the game.
However, if any time they lost the game, Ba would feel some­what sad. Therefore,
the other players secretly decided among themselves to let Ba win even­tually
every time, so that her sadness may not adversely affect her health. She grew so
fond of the game that even during her last grave illness, the carom-board would
be taken near her bed and she would watch others playing the game. And whenever
Mirabehn won, Ba, who formerly used to be her partner, too, would consider the
victory as her own, and whenever Mirabehn lost, vice versa.